Benefits of Live Cell Analysis

Data generated using live cell analysis approaches can be powerfully convincing. Why? There is a visceral attraction to dynamic data and video, and the brain is very good at analyzing data across time. Static images may allow measurement of structure length (e.g. neurites) but images gained from live cell analysis can be used to quantitatively measure the length of a developing neurite, or the size of an extending process, and how that process or extension might change when impacted by an environmental cue.

Comparison of Static and Dynamic Cell Analysis

Static cell analysis

Dynamic live cell analysis

Leveraging our innate spatiotemporal visual processing abilities

Data is in discrete events and harder to combine to detect temporal changes

Graphical representation of the autophagosome formation over time in the images captured above. (Click image to enlarge.)

Multicontent Data Approach

Live cell analysis provides for a multi-content data approach when combined with the appropriate imaging and video software. When properly outfitted, dynamic cellular analysis allows scientists to analyze many properties or features of individual cells or organisms all at once.

This ability of live cell approaches to analyze many features simultaneously is finding uses in translational research such as high-content screening (HCS) for drug discovery. In HCS, the data from LCA can be used in both simple protein target assays or in morphological or phenotypic analyses or both simultaneously. Scientists can analyze intracellular and intercellular protein movement, and account for different sub-populations in a heterogeneous mixture. Such analysis would be nearly impossible with fixed cells or other non-imaging, non-live analysis methods. Live cell experimental designs of these kinds represent significant advancements toward more in vivo like, predictive cell culture.

For an active blog on the science and technology of live cell analysis, visit the Dynamic Cell Blog:

Live cell imaging systems are typically based on fluorescence or confocal microscopes with an inverted optics plan where the cultures are imaged from below. Inverted microscopes allow an environmental control box to be built onto the platform, partially enclosing the microscope but allowing access to the oculars, light source and cameras. Many live imaging microscope systems also benefit from autofocus capabilities that assist in imaging through cell monolayers as well as 3D cell and tissue cultures. In addition, since the idea of live cell imaging is to capture information on dynamic cell behavior, microscope automation allows better imaging and recording of time lapse events.